Questions to Ask a Breeder When Considering a Puppy

When looking for a puppy from a breeder, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they are ethical, responsible, and committed to the health and well-being of their dogs. A reputable breeder should be transparent, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout your puppy’s life.

Breeding Program & Ethics

How long have you been breeding this breed, and what is your experience with them?
Beyond your own dogs, how many have you worked with and handled?
What are your breeding philosophy and goals?
How do you ensure the health, temperament, and structure of your breeding dogs?
How many litters do you produce each year?
How many litters have you produced in total?
Can I visit your facility and meet the parents of the litter? (A good breeder should welcome visits.)
Do you offer a full refund for dermoid sinus? (This is an ethical standard for responsible Phu Quoc Ridgeback breeders.)
Do you provide lifetime breeder support? If so, what does that include?

Health & Genetic Testing

What health screenings and genetic tests do you perform on your breeding dogs? (Ask for proof of testing.)
Have both parents been tested for breed-specific health conditions?
Do you provide a written health guarantee? If so, what does it cover?
What vaccinations, deworming, and veterinary care do puppies receive before going home?
At what age do you allow puppies to leave? (Ethical breeders wait at least 8 weeks.)

Puppy Socialization & Training

A responsible breeder should provide frequent video updates on their website or social media to show how puppies are raised. Red flag: If there are no videos, the breeder may not be transparent about their puppy care.

How do you socialize your puppies before they go to their new homes?
Are the puppies exposed to different people, sounds, and environments?
Have they started basic training (crate training, potty training, leash exposure, etc.)?
What is the temperament of the parents, and what traits can I expect in this litter?

Experience & Commitment to the Breed

How experienced are you with this breed overall?
Do you participate in rescue work for the breed?
How do you contribute to the breed’s preservation and well-being?
Do you have references from past puppy buyers? (A good breeder should happily provide references.)

Ownership & Ongoing Support

Do you have a contract, and what are the terms?
What happens if I can no longer keep my dog? (A reputable breeder should accept returns at any stage of the dog’s life.)
Do you offer support for training and behavioral challenges as the puppy matures?
How do you handle dogs that develop behavioral issues?

Red Flags to Watch For 🚩

Puppies are available too frequently or at too young an age (before 8 weeks).
The breeder won’t let you visit or see the living conditions of the puppies and parents.
No contract or no commitment to the puppy’s lifelong welfare (no breeder support).
The breeder does not take dogs back under any circumstances.
No health guarantee against dermoid sinus. (Ethical breeders offer a full refund for affected puppies.)
Lack of transparency in puppy care—no videos or proof of daily activities.

Final Thoughts

By asking these critical questions, you’ll be able to determine whether the breeder is truly dedicated to the health, temperament, and future of their puppies. A responsible breeder will be happy to answer your questions and ensure their puppies go to the best possible homes. 🐶💙